GuruBodyworker's Personal Masseur Interview

Last Updated: Mar 01, 14:11

- Training is needed if you are in it for the long haul. There is always something new to learn whether from schools, videos, online courses, or other people. Of course hands on experience is always the best. There are some guys who are just naturally gifted and become great masseurs. I've also received massage from guys with diplomas all over the walls and they had no idea how to touch another human being. It all depends on the person. Connection and technique is really important.

- My background before this was working in greenhouses. I'm a natural nurturer. I've also been told countless times that I have an amazing touch. I'm good at being alone so being self-employed works for me. As a gay man, well, I love the opportunity to connect intimately with other gay men.

- You have to be willing to touch each and every body type equally without prejudice. Some days it can be a really challenging job. Being a masseur makes a good side gig but it takes a lot of effort to do this as your main job. You have to know how to deal with the gaps in this business. Get some training and receive regular bodywork. Don't worry about what other guys are doing. Figure out your niche and be serious about your business. One more thing … don't rub somebody down with Wesson cooking oil. Yep, that happened to me.

- I'm an earth daddy. I love being in nature. Being near the water or hiking in the woods is sacred time for me. I'm also an avid music fan and enjoy choosing interesting and unique selections that compliment each session.

- I've kept my head above water all these years. I realized early on that moneywise I would not be getting rich. I do feel my life has been enriched doing this work. It's very fulfilling helping another man be in tune with his body. On those rare occassions when you have a "cosmic connection" with a client, it is truly profound.

There have been powerful life changing moments too. A client came in and I noticed a mole on his back had changed since the last time I saw him. I told him to immediately go see his doctor. The skin cancer had spread internally but was caught in time. After a rigorous treatment he is alive and well today. That is a success story and reinforces that I'm on the right path.

- Well, I'm one of the oldest guys here in Boston on this site. There are very few of us who make it 30 years plus in this business doing real bodywork as a sole means of income. I know this a service oriented business. I take care of myself so I can offer quality work. I'm honest with my clients about my energy level. I never book back to back appointments for my own well-being and client discretion.

- A friend was in massage school and suggested that I look into it also. I did some research and enrolled. After I graduated I put an ad in the local gay rag. A business man answered. I was extremely nervous. I was trying to fit all the techniques I learned into an hour session. It was a bit frantic but he didn't seem to mind. It takes a while to create your own style and rhythm.

- I really enjoy what I do or wouldn’t have lasted as long as I have. I’m a very focused and detailed person. Don't let the beard, my age or bearish appearance scare you off. I'm a very nice guy once you get to know me. I've formed some very long lasting relationships with some of my clients.

- I've been doing this since 1992. This work is hard on the body and psyche. Unexpected things happen in life. I had a severe wrist break from a car accident when the air bag went off and snapped my wrist. I was out of work for 8 months. That was a very rough period. I plan on doing this as long as possible. Adjusting to circumstances keeps the energy flowing. After all these years I still enjoy making men feel good.

- I want them to feel that it was worthwhile and their expectations were met. Everyone has stress. Scheduling time isn't easy for busy people. It's a commitment that can take 2-4 hours out of a client's day when you factor in traffic to and from and the amount of time requested for the session. I want my clients to feel that the time spent with me was very fulfilling on many levels.